High school to host new student orientation

Like it or not, September is coming, but Indian River High School officials want new students to feel at home immediately. IRHS is inviting all incoming ninth-graders and any transfer students to a New Student Orientation on Thursday, Aug. 21, at 6:30 p.m.

“It’s something that we’ve always wanted to do” — prepare students for the next four years, said Principal Bennett Murray.

Parents and students will meet in the auditorium, then split up to learn more about IRHS. Students will have team-building exercises and leadership activities. Parents will meet the counselors and learn how to help their students be successful. They’ll also discuss assessments, from AP to SAT.

Even Murray had to reach deep into his memory to help with his son’s math homework. So tutoring is part of the parents’ session.

“There’s other ways to support their sons or daughters to ensure success,” besides knowing geometry, he said.

Parents of recent graduates will share helpful hints they wish they had known early on.

Each student will take home an “IR Pride” gift, courtesy of the recently graduated Class of 2014.

“We’re very excited about that,” Murray said. “I can’t think of a better way to start the incoming class than with green and gold.”

Current students, guidance counselors, teachers and administration will lead the groups on Thursday. Students and their parents do not need to pre-register to attend the orientation.